Robert Morris University: A Complete Guide to the Private Pittsburgh Institution
Robert Morris University (RMU) is a private university located in Moon Township, Pennsylvania, just 17 miles from downtown Pittsburgh. Order a Robert Morris University diploma replica, get a Robert Morris University degree online, Can I order an RMU certificate? With a history stretching back to 1921, the university has evolved from a small accountancy school into a comprehensive institution offering over 80 undergraduate and graduate degree programs. This guide provides a thorough overview of RMU, including its history, academics, campus life, and the crucial distinction between it and the now-defunct Robert Morris University Illinois.
At a Glance
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Established | 1921 |
| Location | Moon Township, Pennsylvania (Pittsburgh area) |
| Type | Private, not-for-profit university |
| Total Enrollment | 5,275 (Fall 2024) |
| Undergraduate Enrollment | 4,325 |
| Graduate Enrollment | 968 |
| Campus Size | 230 acres |
| Colors | Blue, White, Red |
| Athletics | NCAA Division I – Horizon League |
| Nickname | Colonials |
| Accreditation | Middle States Commission on Higher Education |
A History of Growth and Transformation
Realistic Robert Morris University diploma. Robert Morris University’s story is one of continuous growth. It was founded in 1921 as the Pittsburgh School of Accountancy by Andrew Blass. The first class enrolled only 26 students. In 1935, the school was renamed to honor Robert Morris, a Pennsylvania Founding Father known as the “Financier of the American Revolution”.
The institution achieved several key milestones throughout the 20th century:
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1962: Became Robert Morris Junior College and transitioned to a nonprofit institution.
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1969: Began offering four-year bachelor’s degrees and was renamed Robert Morris College.
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1978: Admitted its first graduate students.
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1999: Offered its first doctoral program.
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2002: Achieved university status, becoming Robert Morris University.
Key leadership moments include the appointment of Christopher B. Howard as the university’s eighth president in 2016—the first African-American to hold the role—and the appointment of Michelle L. Patrick in 2022, who became the first woman to serve as RMU president. Michelle Patrick remains the current president.
Academics: A Focus on Professional Education
RMU’s academic philosophy integrates a liberal arts foundation with a professionally focused, applied education. The university’s commitment to preparing students for the workforce is evident in its statistics: 67% of graduates had an internship in their field.
The university is home to several accredited schools and programs:
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Rockwell School of Business: This school holds prestigious accreditation from AACSB International and is the first university in Western Pennsylvania to also earn AACSB Accounting accreditation. In 2022, it was renamed in honor of a record $18 million gift from the S. Kent Rockwell Foundation.
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Engineering and Information Sciences: B.S. programs in information sciences, computer information systems, engineering, and manufacturing engineering are accredited by ABET.
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Education and Nursing: Educator preparation programs are accredited by CAEP, and nursing programs are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education.
Notable Academic Initiatives
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RMU Next Century Scholars: A $3 million gift from Netflix CEO Reed Hastings funds 20 full scholarships for students from underrepresented groups pursuing degrees in technology and math fields.
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Peirce Center for Structured Reading Teacher Training: A record $8.82 million gift from the Peirce Foundation supports teacher training for dyslexia education, the largest gift of its kind in Pennsylvania.
Campus and Student Life
The 230-acre main campus in Moon Township is located near the Pittsburgh International Airport and features modern facilities. The campus is designed to foster a vibrant, residential community, with 83% of freshmen living on campus.
Key campus facilities include:
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UPMC Events Center: The home of Colonials basketball and volleyball, also hosting conferences, concerts, and other events.
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Joe Walton Stadium: The home field for football and lacrosse teams.
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Clearview Arena: Located at the RMU Island Sports Center on Neville Island, this is the home of the men’s and women’s ice hockey teams.
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Scai Hall and John Jay Center: Recent additions for the School of Nursing and Health Sciences and for engineering and technology programs.
With over 120 clubs and organizations, there are ample opportunities for student involvement. The university competes in NCAA Division I athletics as a member of the Horizon League.
Robert Morris University vs. Robert Morris University Illinois
A common point of confusion is the distinction between Robert Morris University (in Pennsylvania) and Robert Morris University Illinois. They were separate institutions.
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Robert Morris University Illinois was a private, not-for-profit institution with its main campus in Chicago. It had a different history, mission, and accreditation (North Central Association/HLC) . This institution is now closed; it voluntarily resigned its accreditation and became a location of Roosevelt University in 2020.
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Robert Morris University (RMU) in Pennsylvania remains an active, accredited institution.
Tuition and Financial Aid
For the 2024-2025 academic year, the tuition and fees for full-time, first-time undergraduate students are $35,970**. On-campus room and board costs are approximately **$13,100.
Conclusion
Robert Morris University offers a comprehensive, career-focused education in a dynamic suburban setting. Its nearly century-long history, modern facilities, strong athletic programs, and commitment to professional preparation make it a significant educational institution in the Pittsburgh region.
